Turtles in Curacao: where to find them and what do you need to know?
Turtles in Curacao: where to find them and what do you need to know?
Do you want to swim with majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat during your trip to this tropical island ?
The best places to spot turtles
Curacao is a true snorkeling and diving paradise where you can encounter different species of sea turtles. The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) are among the most common species in the azure waters surrounding the island. Playa Grandi at Westpunt is by far the most popular location, where resident turtles swim along the coast every day. Playa Lagun and Klein Curaçao also offer fantastic opportunities to admire these beautiful animals up close.
When you want to spot turtles on Curacao, it is important to treat these protected animals with respect. Always use durable sunscreen that does not contain harmful substances, do not touch the turtles, and keep enough distance. Organizations such as Sea Turtle Conservation Curacao are actively committed to protecting these special marine animals. Porto Marie and Playa Piskado are also excellent locations where you can observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat while enjoying crystal clear waters and pristine beaches.
Blue Bird Tours & Travel helps you discover the most beautiful places where you can snorkel responsibly with sea turtles, ensuring that your experience is both unforgettable and sustainable.
Everything you need to arrange for a successful turtle encounter
The three sea turtle species you may encounter
In the Caribbean around Curaçao, three main species of sea turtles swim. The green turtle is the most common and can weigh up to 150 kilos. These herbivores graze on seagrass and algae in shallow waters. The Caretta Caretta or loggerhead turtle mainly visits deeper areas, while the hawksbill turtle with its strikingly shaped mouth searches for sponges among the coral reefs. Each of these species has its own behavior pattern and preferred spots, which makes your snorkeling experience extra special.
Protection initiatives and what you can do
The World Wildlife Fund and local organizations such as Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao are working intensively to rescue injured turtles. Volunteers remove hooks and lines from their mouths on a daily basis that are left behind by fishing activities. Some resident turtles wear a metal flipper tag for research purposes, which allows scientists to track their migration routes. If you spot an injured turtle, contact the organization in question immediately. The use of sustainable sunscreen without oxybenzone also helps to protect their habitat.
Practical tips for your snorkeling equipment
A good Action Cam with a waterproof case will capture your underwater moments without disturbing the animals. Make sure your fins fit snugly to save energy while swimming. A water-resistant Curaçao dive map will help you identify the best snorkeling spots and show where turtles are most active. Remember to test your camera settings beforehand so you don’t have to mess around with techniques during the encounter. Blue Bird Tours & Travel can advise you on reliable snorkeling equipment rentals that offer high-quality equipment.
Alternatives to the busy hotspots
While Playa Grandi is world-famous, there are quieter alternatives such as Playa Westpunt and Playa Forti where you will encounter fewer tourists. The Playa Forti restaurant atop the cliff offers spectacular views and access to an intimate bay where turtles regularly pass by. Kokomo beach and Jan Thiel beach are more developed beaches with facilities, but you can also occasionally spot sea turtles there. For a unique experience, explore Shete Boka , where rugged coastlines and natural pools provide a dramatic backdrop.
Accommodations and restaurants near turtle spots
Lagun Blou Dive and Beach resort is ideally located near Playa Lagun and offers direct trans access. The Bahia Beach Bar & Restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes overlooking the bay where turtles swim. For excursions to remote locations, you can go to Bluefinn Charters, which organizes day trips to Klein Curaçao. Pay your bill often in Antillean guilders or Caribbean Guilder, although euros and dollars are also accepted. Blue Bird can put together complete packages that combine accommodation, transport and snorkeling excursions.
Unique experiences at the Sea Aquarium
The Sea Aquarium offers educational programs where you can observe baby turtles rescued from beaches. This facility acts as a rehabilitation center before releasing young turtles. You will learn about the life cycle, threats and successful recovery projects. Some tours combine the aquarium with a visit to Mambo Beach, one of the top 10 beaches on the island. For more adventurous souls, the Blue Room Cave is a hidden snorkeling location where sunlight creates magical blue hues through underwater vents.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is Ascencion Estate and can I see turtles there?
Ascencion Estate is a historic estate in the western part of Curaçao, but it is not primarily known as a turtle location. For sea turtles, coastal areas such as Playa Grandi and Playa Lagun are much more suitable. However, the estate does offer access to nature reserves where you can explore Curaçao’s natural surroundings . Blue Bird Tours & Travel can put together a combination tour that includes cultural heritage sites as well as the best turtle spots, so you can get a complete picture of the island.
Can I cycle to the best turtle beaches with Baja Bikes ?
Baja Bikes offers bike rental and organized bike tours across Curaçao, including routes to coastal areas. However, the distance to Playa Grandi or Playa Westpunt from Willemstad is considerable (about 30-40 km), which is feasible for advanced cyclists. For a more comfortable option, you can combine cycling with transport through Blue Bird Tours & Travel. This way, you’ll cycle short, scenic routes along the coast while your equipment and transfers are taken care of. Perfect for active travelers who want to enjoy the azure waters without exhaustion.
What facilities does Porto Marie have for turtle-watching families?
Porto Marie is one of the best-equipped beaches with toilets, showers, restaurant and snorkeling equipment rental. The beach is known for its double reef where green sea turtles regularly occur. Children can snorkel safely in the shallows while parents look out for Chelonia mydas and other marine life. Parking costs a small fee, and sun loungers are available. Blue Bird can pre-arrange your day pass including snorkeling equipment, so you can get in the water right on arrival for an unforgettable family experience.
How do I get to Klein Curaçao and what makes it special for turtles?
Klein Curaçao is an uninhabited island accessible via boat trips that depart from various ports. Operators like Bluefinn Charters organize day trips that include snorkeling, lunch, and beach time. The clear waters surrounding this remote island regularly attract Caretta Caretta and hawksbill turtles . The beach also serves as a nesting place for baby turtles during the breeding season. Blue Bird Tours & Travel works with reliable operators who offer ecologically responsible excursions, including transport from your accommodation to the port of departure.
Can I see turtles at Shete Boka National Park?
Shete Boka National Park is best known for its dramatic coastlines and rugged waves, not primarily as a snorkeling location. However, during the nesting season (April-September), sea turtles lay eggs on some sheltered beaches within the park. Observation must be done remotely to avoid disturbance. For active turtle encounters in the water, Playa Lagun or Playa Piskado are better choices. Blue Bird can put together a combination trip where you snorkel with resident turtles in the morning and experience the spectacular natural power of Shete Boka in the afternoon.
What is the difference between Eretmochelys imbricata and Chelonia mydas?
Eretmochelys imbricata (hawksbill turtle) has a narrower, pointed-shaped beak with which it catches sponges between coral reefs. The carapace shows overlapping scales with brown and gold patterns. Chelonia mydas (green turtle) is larger, with a rounded head and smooth carapace, and feeds on seagrass and algae. Both species swim in the azure waters surrounding Curaçao, but the green turtle is much more frequent at popular snorkeling spots. Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao uses metal flipper tags to monitor both species.
Which beaches out of the top 10 beaches are best for turtles?
Out of the top 10 beaches in Curaçao, Playa Grandi, Playa Lagun , and Porto Marie are definitely the best for turtle encounters. Playa Piskado (also known as Playa Grandi) attracts green sea turtles that swim among snorkelers on a daily basis. Mambo Beach and Jan Thiel beach are more focused on beach clubs and facilities, with occasional turtle sightings. For the most reliable encounters, choose the western beaches where resident turtles have their feeding ground. Blue Bird helps you plan a route along several top beaches in one day.
Is the Sea Aquarium suitable for those who don't dare to open water?
The Sea Aquarium provides a safe, controlled environment where you can observe sea turtles without snorkeling. You will see baby turtles in rehabilitation tanks and learn about Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao projects. For those who still want to get into the water but are unsure, the aquarium organizes guided shallow snorkeling sessions in enclosed lagoons. Nearby Mambo Beach offers calm waters for beginners. Blue Bird can put together a combination package with aquarium visit, beach time and possibly an introductory snorkeling course, so that you build up confidence for open water experiences step by step.
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